Job Summary: 

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Executive Director to establish and grow our site in Savannah, Georgia. The Executive Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization’s site operations, fundraising, and community engagement efforts to ensure the fulfillment of our mission. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and the ability to build a site from the ground up. Additionally, the ideal candidate will have strong ties to the greater Savannah area.

About ESP:

Founded in 1986 in Watkinsville, Georgia, esp exists to create transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families and change communities for the better. esp now operates five locations across the state of Georgia and North Carolina to provide year-round programming, summer camp, and family support to nearly 1,000 families. To learn more, visit espyouandme.org 

Our Values:

• Infused with Joyful Hospitality
• Innovating Possibilities
• Activating the Abilities of All
• Fascinated with Fun
• Compassion, Freely Given
• Connecting the Unconnected
• Persevering, Together

Detailed Responsibilities: 

• Fundraising and Development 
  • Lead fundraising efforts, including individual donor cultivation, corporate sponsorships, and other opportunities for support. 
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan to support the growth and sustainability of the Savannah site.
  • Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, community leaders, and partners. 
  • Partner with the local Advisory Board to cultivate leads, new relationships, and steward opportunities on behalf of the organization. 
• Team Leadership and Management 
  • Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the Savannah site.
  • Build a team culture of accountability, innovation, and celebration in growing a new site. 
  • Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure effective management of the site. 
• Program Development and Implementation 
  • Oversee the development and delivery of high-quality programs and services that align with the organization’s mission and are responsive to the needs of people with disabilities and their families. 
  • Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness and make necessary adjustments to enhance impact. 
  • Ensure alignment of quality expectations between site programs and overall organizational vision. 
• Site Operations and Board Development 
  • Develop and manage the site’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability and accountability. 
  • Oversee daily operations and ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. 
  • Ensure effective resource allocation to support the organization’s mission and goals. 
  • Work closely with the local Advisory Board to support the strategic direction of the site and operational oversight. 
  • Assist in the recruitment, training, and development of Advisory Board members. 
  • Ensure effective communication and collaboration between the Advisory Board and staff. 
• Community Engagement 
  • Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization and the needs for programming for people with disabilities and their families. 
  • Foster strong relationships with community organizations and other stakeholders. 
  • Grow awareness of ESP Savannah in the region by attending networking events, engaging in the community, and spreading awareness to new donors and community members through public speak and media engagement

Key Competencies:

• Leadership 
• Fundraising 
• Communication 
• Entrepreneurial 
• Strategy 
• Problem Solver 
• Relationship Building 
• Nonprofit Operational Acumen
• Flexibility 
• Passion

Key Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, with a proven track record of successful fundraising and program development. 
• Strong ties to the greater Savannah area strongly preferred. 
• Strong understanding of the needs and challenges faced by people with disabilities and their families. 
• Passion for the organization’s mission and a commitment to making a positive impact in the community. 
• Experience in establishing and growing new sites or initiatives. 
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field preferred. 
• Financial acumen and experience managing budgets and financial reporting.
• Must be able to apply established protocols in a timely manner, with little direction
• Must be able to discern and maintain confidential information

Job  Expectations

• The Executive Director will primarily be in-person and on-site. Remote options may be available within the confines of site and program needs. 
• ESP programs can take place in both the early morning and evening, as well as on weekends. The Executive Director will be expected to attend key programs as needed to build relationships with donors, community members, and to support their staff. 
• The Executive Director may travel up to 15% of time, primarily to Athens, Georgia for organization-wide training and events

• Salary: The salary range for this position is $85,000 – $95,000 based on experience and performance. ESP also offers generous benefits. 
• FLSA Status: Exempt, Salaried, Full-Time 
• Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Supplemental, 401k matching, generous PTO policy 
• Immediate Supervisor: Chief Operating Officer 
• Supervises: Program and Development Officer
• Location: Savannah, Georgia / In-Person

ESP provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

ESP is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. As part of this commitment, esp will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact ESP's People Team at hr@espyouandme.org.